Belgium delays F-16 transfer to Ukraine amid spare parts shortage

Le Soir reported the information. 

The delay is attributed to two main factors: a shortage of spare parts and insufficiently trained pilots.

The transfer of the F-16s to Ukraine, part of the country's support for Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression, had been eagerly anticipated. However, logistical challenges have hindered the timely delivery.

In addition to these issues, Belgium is also facing disruptions in the arrival of new American-made F-35 fighters, which were meant to replace the aging F-16 fleet. The United States had initially planned to deliver the first batch of F-35s in 2023, but this deadline has been pushed back by a year.

Belgium did receive four F-35s in July, but pilots are currently undergoing training in the United States before the jets can be fully operational.